WHAT TO WEAR WHEN SAILING

A little bit of advice from Capt. Pete​

Since weather conditions can change quickly while out at sea, it's best to have layers of lightweight protective clothing that will keep you safe and warm from the sun, wind, or cool/cold temperatures depending on the day of your booking. Sunscreen is a must, even in cloudy conditions, so is a hat. Sunglasses are optional, but highly recommended as our Carolina sun is bright and the water very reflective.

Enjoy the sun, but after awhile you may be getting hot, so light clothing to cover up is recommended. Wear sturdy, non-black soled sneakers or boat shoes. Flip flops are okay, if that is your preference, however, they are not very sturdy on your feet and can be slippery if the deck gets wet. If it's cloudy and the weather indicates a possible sprinkle, please bring a light rain jacket (we have a few rain jackets on board, best to bring your own if possible). There is plenty of room in the below deck Salon to store your extra gear.​

ALL USCG APPROVED SAFETY GEAR IS PROVIDED BY US

Anyone not able to swim must wear a life jacket. If you plan to walk around the boat, a life jacket must be worn.

Young ones must wear a life jacket at all times. Please let us know the age and size of any child that will be sailing with you so we can ensure a proper fit for the life jackets. You are always welcome to bring your own PFDs if you prefer.

IMPORTANT Safety News from the US Coast Guard

Life Jacket, Life Vest, Personal Flotation Device (PFD) - whatever you call it, it only works if you wear it! Boat smart! Wear your life jacket! Most drownings occur way out at sea - right? Wrong! Nine out of ten drownings occur in inland waters, most within a few feet of safety and involve boats under 20-feet long. More than 80% of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket. Boaters think they will have time to prepare for an accident - and have time to grab a life jacket then put it on. In reality, there often is no time and once you're in the water, it may be too late. Life jackets are designed to keep you afloat in the water and give you extra time.

All Kids Sailing on the Ava Grace MUST Wear Life Vests

North Carolina law requires children younger than 13 years of age to wear an appropriate life vest whenever they are on a recreational vessel that is underway. When choosing a life vest for a child, always check for a U.S. Coast Guard approved label. The life vest must be a proper fit, with youth sizes corresponding to weight ranges. For more information about boating safety or to enroll in a FREE boating education course, click HERE for the NC Wildlife website.

70% of all fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those, 84% were reported as not wearing a life jacket.

Time can mean the difference between life and death - because it doesn't take long to drown. In fact, it may only take 60 seconds for an adult to drown and as little as 20 seconds for a child. Before you shove off, please be sure to wear a life jacket with all straps, zippers, and ties fastened. Tuck in any loose strap ends. We have a variety of life vests on board and are happy to talk with you about the various styles and types of jackets available - and make recommendations should you wish to purchase your own.